Pawpaw is a small deciduous tree native to the eastern United States. It is famous for producing the largest edible native fruit in North America—custard-like, tropical-flavored pawpaws that ripen in late summer to early fall. With large, drooping, tropical-looking leaves and maroon spring flowers, Pawpaw adds beauty and ecological value to woodlands and gardens.
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Growth Habits & Characteristics:
•Height: 15–30 feet
•Spread: 10–20 feet
•Sun Requirements: Partial shade to full sun (better fruit production in full sun)
•Soil Preferences: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils; thrives in rich, loamy, or silty soil
•Bloom Time: Early spring (March–May), before leaf-out
•Water Needs: Moderate to high; prefers moist soil but can tolerate short dry periods
•Growth Habit: Small, understory tree with an upright, spreading canopy 
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Host Insect:
Serves as the primary host plant for the Zebra Swallowtail (Eurytides marcellus) butterfly caterpillars.
Pollinator Importance:
•Attracts beetles and flies for pollination, as Pawpaw flowers have a faint, yeasty odor.
•Provides shelter for a variety of native insects and birds.
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Companion Plants:
•Lindera benzoin (Spicebush) – Another host plant for swallowtail butterflies and a great woodland companion.
•Cercis canadensis (Eastern Redbud) – Adds spring color and thrives in similar woodland conditions.
•Arisaema triphyllum (Jack-in-the-Pulpit) – Complements the shady understory with unique foliage.
•Podophyllum peltatum (Mayapple) – Forms a natural ground cover beneath Pawpaw trees.
•Cornus florida (Flowering Dogwood) – Provides additional spring blossoms and supports pollinators.
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Ecological Importance:
•Butterfly Habitat: Essential host plant for the Zebra Swallowtail butterfly, supporting its life cycle.
•Wildlife Food Source: Fruits are eaten by raccoons, foxes, opossums, black bears, and birds.
•Pollinator Diversity: Flowers attract beetles and flies, broadening the range of native pollinators.
•Erosion Control: Deep taproots stabilize soil in riparian and woodland environments.
•Native Food Source: The fruit has been historically consumed by Indigenous peoples and wildlife alike.